Neutral Spine Teaching Aid

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Posture plays a crucial role in long-term health and education barely scratches the surface of the importance of standing or sitting up straight. Maintaining a neutral spine is essential for good posture, which has become increasingly compromised due to computer usage and prolonged periods of sitting. This simplified spinal model provides students with a hands-on approach to learning the fundamental principles of a neutral spine. By manipulating the physical model, students can visualize the mechanics of a healthy spine and apply this knowledge to various situations they encounter in life. The 3D printable model is designed to match the printed worksheet diagrams, which depict common shapes of the spine in both good and bad posture. When the model is out of alignment, red zones appear between the vertebrae, clearly indicating areas that require attention. This visual cue enables students to identify problem areas and address them during the lesson. This comprehensive lesson plan was submitted to the Create to Educate contest sponsored by Ultimaker and MatterHackers, aiming to educate students about the significance of good posture through hands-on learning experiences.